The Imperial Naval Academy, originally known as the Republic Naval Academy, was the primary naval academy used by the Republic Navy and the Imperial Navy. The Academy was also known by names such as the Prefsbelt IV Naval Academy, Prefsbelt Imperial Academy, Prefsbelt Fleet Camp, and the Imperial Naval College, and though the academy's location was officially classified, it was widely known to be located on the planetPrefsbelt IV. Founded after the Pius Dea Crusades during AdmiralPers Pradeux's restructuring of the Republic Navy, the academy served the Republic for thousands of years, and served its successor state, the Galactic Empire, as one of the three premier institutions of the Imperial Academy system.

Contents

The Naval Academy on the planetPrefsbelt IV was built on the hills surrounding around Castle Pradeux and the Twelve Mounts—a series of peaks named after famous naval battles. A lengthy passage, kilometers long, ran from Castle Pradeux to the heart of the Twelve Mounts, ending at the Naval Crypt where the "Father of the Navy," Pers Pradeux, was entombed. During graduation, midshipmen would walk the length of the passage in silence to the Crypt, where each would dedicate themselves to the naval service. After graduation, midshipmen recessed down the Incline of the Mounts, which was lined with monuments and historical artifacts, and were then conveyed by hovertrain to Prefsbelt Green. The skyhook over Prefsbelt Green led to Prefsbelt Black, where midshipmen would receive their orders. Classrooms within the Academy often included large holoprojectors used to display simulations and records of past battles.[1]

There was also another portion of the academy located in a barren valley that contained a central tower, at least two hangars, four barred hangars, searchlights, and a landing pad that was guarded by four turrets, with several TIEs often landing on the ground at night. At least three communication arrays and five landing pads were also in close proximity to the building, and the building was also guarded by eight sensor arrays.[3]

Prefsbelt students began with academic study and tactical simulations, and later moved on to leadership courses and active service rotations as ensigns. Most students entered naval service after three years at the Academy, but some students instead shifted to flight schools, and some continued their studies at the Empire's three specialized military schools, as did some graduates of the Imperial Army Academy on Raithal. The Corulag Imperial Military Academy trained cadets from all services, putting an emphasis on active training, while Anaxes focused on active training and combat simulations, serving as a think tank and testing ground for new warships and equipment. Some students also spent semesters at the Academy of Carida, the training academy for the Empire's Stormtrooper Corps. The Academy also included an Officer Candidate School, which Han Solo was recommended for.[1]